Article
Immunology
Antoinette A. Grobbelaar, Jocelyn Jardine, Felicity J. Burt, Alasdair J. Shepherd, Susan P. Shepherd, Patricia A. Leman, Alan Kemp, Lawrence E. O. Braack, Jacqueline Weyer, Janusz T. Paweska, Robert Swanepoel
Summary: A survey conducted in South Africa and Zimbabwe found widespread distribution of antibody to mammarenaviruses in 33 rodent species, with 19 isolates obtained from 4 seropositive species, including 14 isolates identified as Mopeia virus. Further genetic analysis revealed additional potential novel viruses awaiting full characterization.
EMERGING INFECTIOUS DISEASES
(2021)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Nicole Angotti, Sanyu A. Mojola, Yunhan Wen, Abby Ferdinando
Summary: The availability of antiretroviral treatment (ART) has shifted the focus of HIV prevention from behavioral changes to biomedical approaches, with successful ART management maintaining overall health and preventing viral transmission. However, the implementation of ART in South Africa has led to uneven spread of knowledge, influencing sexual practices due to counseling advice, norms, and gender dynamics. Middle-aged and older people living with HIV (MOPLH) face challenges in sexual decisions and negotiations, with biomedical bargains being used to reach consensus on the risks and terms of sex. Gender dynamics play a role, with women emphasizing treatment efficacy while men use biomedical arguments to justify condomless sex. The social impact on ART's therapeutic benefits remains significant.
SOCIAL SCIENCE & MEDICINE
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Melanie Plazy, Adama Diallo, Thabile Hlabisa, Nonhlanhla Okesola, Collins Iwuji, Kobus Herbst, Sylvie Boyer, France Lert, Nuala McGrath, Deenan Pillay, Francois Dabis, Joseph Larmarange, Joanna Orne-Gliemann
Summary: This study reports on the implementation and effectiveness of a linkage-to-care intervention in rural South Africa, which involved tracking HIV-positive individuals through phone calls and home visits. The results showed that this intervention was effective in improving the linkage-to-care rate among patients.
Article
Immunology
Colleen F. Hanrahan, Bareng Aletta Sanny Nonyane, Limakatso Lebina, Lesego Mmolawa, Tsundzukani Siwelana, Nora S. West, Nicholas Albaugh, Neil Martinson, David W. Dowdy
Summary: This study conducted a trial of two tuberculosis contact investigation approaches (household-based and incentive-based) in South Africa and found that the incentive-based approach has similar effectiveness to the household-based approach, providing a viable alternative or complement to traditional methods.
CLINICAL INFECTIOUS DISEASES
(2023)
Article
Psychology, Clinical
Richard Muhumuza, Andrew Sentoogo Ssemata, Ayoub Kakande, Nadia Ahmed, Millicent Atujuna, Mangxilana Nomvuyo, Linda-Gail Bekker, Janan Janine Dietrich, Gugulethu Tshabalala, Stefanie Hornschuh, Mamakiri Maluadzi, Lynda Chibanda-Stranix, Teacler Nematadzira, Helen Anne Weiss, Stephen Nash, Julie Fox, Janet Seeley
Summary: The study found that young people are generally willing to use PrEP and consider it an acceptable HIV prevention method. Personal and environmental factors both influence the acceptance and use of PrEP, therefore these factors need to be considered when promoting PrEP.
ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR
(2021)
Letter
Immunology
David Stead, Desiree du Plessis, Lisa Ming Sun, John Frean
Summary: A study revealed that an HIV-positive man from Zimbabwe living in South Africa was infected with an African rodent piroplasm, Anthemosoma garnhami, expanding the known geographic and host range of this parasite.
EMERGING INFECTIOUS DISEASES
(2021)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Elizabeth T. Montgomery, Ariana W. K. Katz, Zoe Duby, Leila E. Mansoor, Neetha S. Morar, Kalendri Naidoo, Mercy Tsidya, Miria Chitukuta, Victor Guma, Siyanda Tenza, Jonah Leslie, Morgan Garcia, Sarita Naidoo
Summary: The study found that while some male partners felt the dapivirine ring during sex, most attributed it to incorrect insertion. Some men described the ring as scratching the tip of their penis, causing a sensation of being blocked from full entry into the vagina. However, the majority of male partners did not notice the ring during intercourse, and it did not lead to any changes in sexual positions, feelings, frequency, or experience for most.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Stephanie R. Psaki, Julie Pulerwitz, Brady Zieman, Paul C. Hewett, Mags Beksinska
Summary: This study evaluates the implementation of HIV testing, prevention, and treatment interventions in informal settlements and finds positive trends in HIV treatment and barriers to HIV testing, especially for men.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Orevaoghene Eterigho-Ikelegbe, Ryan Trammell, Samson Bada
Summary: This study focused on blending coal discard with a polysiloxane preceramic polymer resin to produce coal/ceramic composites, then evaluating their physicomechanical properties. The results showed that functional groups in the coal discard promoted bonding with the polymer, leading to composites with low water absorption and high flexural strength. More tests are needed to fully characterize the properties of the coal composites.
CONSTRUCTION AND BUILDING MATERIALS
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Janan Janine Dietrich, Nadia Ahmed, Gugulethu Tshabalala, Minju Wu, Mamakiri Mulaudzi, Stefanie Hornschuh, Millicent Atujuna, Richard Muhumuza, Andrew Sentoogo Ssemata, Lynda Stranix-Chibanda, Teacler Nematadzira, Linda-Gail Bekker, Neil Martinson, Janet Seeley, Julie Fox
Summary: This study explored the preferences of adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa for daily versus on-demand PrEP. The reasons for choosing daily PrEP included sexual risk behavior, continuous protection, and increased efficacy. On the other hand, the reasons for choosing on-demand PrEP included dependence on the medication, side effects, and pill fatigue. The study highlights the importance of comprehensive education and exploring different options for HIV prevention.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Carolyn M. Audet, Daniel E. Sack, Godfrey H. Ndlovu, Caroline Morkel, Jacob Harris, Ryan G. Wagner, Tshegofatso M. Seabi
Summary: Evidence shows that male partner involvement can promote maternal HIV testing, antiretroviral adherence, and infant survival. However, the most effective strategy to engage male partners remains unknown. Understanding pregnant women's attitudes towards partner involvement, preferred types of involvement, and invitation methods is crucial in developing effective male partner engagement strategies.
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Divya K. Chandra, Anthony P. Moll, Frederick L. Altice, Elizabeth Didomizio, Laurie Andrews, Sheela V. Shenoi
Summary: The study found that in rural South Africa, only 57.8% of HIV patients initiated tuberculosis preventive treatment. Older age and symptoms of fever or weight loss were associated with higher likelihood of treatment initiation, while the clinic was the only independent factor influencing TPT initiation. Addressing contextual barriers through evidence-based strategies may improve future TPT implementation in this setting.
GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH
(2022)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Tjale Cloupas Mahopo, Cebisa Noxolo Nesamvuni, Azwihangwisi Edward Nesamvuni, Melanie de Bryun, Johan van Niekerk, Ramya Ambikapathi
Summary: This study aimed to characterize the operations of the street food enterprise in the Vhembe district, focusing on various aspects such as business profile, food sold, pricing, record-keeping practices, and total running cost. The findings revealed the demographic characteristics of the vendors, the types of food sold, and the poor managerial skills of most vendors. The study highlights the need for capital and management support, as well as food training for street food vendors, to improve their business skills and ensure food safety.
FRONTIERS IN PUBLIC HEALTH
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Xing Du, Wentao Zhao, Zhen Wang, Rong Ma, Yunlong Luo, Zhihong Wang, Qiong Sun, Heng Liang
Summary: This study proposed a novel rural water treatment system that effectively harnessed solar energy and gravitational hydropower. The system was able to effectively remove organic matter and turbidity, as well as achieve almost complete elimination of NH3-N and NO2--N. The findings suggest the possibility of sustainable operation during rural water treatment.
SEPARATION AND PURIFICATION TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Gladman Thondhlana, Chipo Plaxedes Mubaya, Alice McClure, Akosua Baah Kwarteng Amaka-Otchere, Sheunesu Ruwanza
Summary: The notion of sustainability has been integrated into various aspects of development to address current and future human needs. The challenges faced by rapidly expanding African cities have led to an increasing call for transdisciplinary research to find pathways towards sustainability. Reflecting on urban sustainability TD projects in Ghana, South Africa, and Zimbabwe offers insights into the challenges and opportunities for TD research in Africa.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Jessica R. Floyd, Emmah Kwoba, Thumbi Mwangi, Joseph Okotto-Okotto, Peggy Wanza, Nicola Wardrop, Weiyu Yu, Jim A. Wright
Summary: This study aimed to quantify the seasonality in cattle proximity to domestic water sources and household compounds, as well as develop a preliminary landscape model of faecal deposition by cattle. Results showed significant differences in home range size, distance travelled from the household, and time spent tethered between seasons, but not in the time spent at domestic water sources or home range overlap with other herds. The preliminary landscape model of faecal deposition by cattle could be further developed to inform interventions for safe separation of livestock and people.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Development Studies
Nyamai Mutono, Jim Wright, Henry Mutembei, S. M. Thumbi
Summary: This study investigated the spatial and temporal patterns of domestic piped water distribution in Nairobi, Kenya between 1985 and 2018, revealing disparities in water sufficiency based on residential areas, age of neighborhoods, and population density. Residents in high-and middle-income areas were more likely to receive the recommended 1500 L per capita per month compared to those in low-income areas. Additionally, non revenue water loss accounted for 29% of water distributed in Nairobi, highlighting the need for deliberate planning and governance to enhance equity in water distribution.
HABITAT INTERNATIONAL
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Chengxiu Li, Jadunandan Dash, Moses Asamoah, Justin Sheffield, Mawuli Dzodzomenyo, Solomon Hailu Gebrechorkos, Daniela Anghileri, Jim Wright
Summary: This study developed a framework to examine the spatiotemporal pattern of floods and assess flood exposure using satellite images, participatory mapping, and socio-economic data. The results showed that the use of multi-temporal radar and optical satellite data improved flood mapping accuracy, but flood exposure estimation remained uncertain.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2022)
Article
Health Care Sciences & Services
Winfred Dotse-Gborgbortsi, Andrew J. Tatem, Zoe Matthews, Victor Alegana, Anthony Ofosu, Jim Wright
Summary: This study used health data to determine natural catchment health districts and presented maternal health indicators using these districts. The results showed that the newly determined boundaries were more accurate and improved the estimation of health indicators compared to existing administrative boundaries.
BMC HEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Winfred Dotse-Gborgbortsi, Andrew J. Tatem, Zoe Matthews, Victor A. Alegana, Anthony Ofosu, Jim A. Wright
Summary: The study investigates the impact of maternal health service quality and travel times to health facilities on birthing service utilization in the Eastern Region of Ghana. The findings reveal a significant decrease in utilization rate as travel time increases. Higher quality of maternal health services has a larger positive effect on utilization rates compared to service proximity. To increase birthing service utilization in Ghana, it is crucial to establish higher quality health facilities closer to women, particularly in rural areas.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Jingxuan Zhao, Weiyu Yu, Kun He, Kun Zhao, Chunliang Zhou, Jim A. Wright, Fayun Li
Summary: This article investigates the impact of environmental factors on amphibian roadkill risks in urban and rural areas and proposes corresponding mitigation measures.
Article
Microbiology
Natasha Potgieter, Lee Heine, Jean Pierre Kabue Ngandu, Solanka Ellen Ledwaba, Tinyiko Zitha, Lutendo Sylvia Mudau, Piet Becker, Afsatou Ndama Traore, Tobias George Barnard
Summary: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of single and multiple diarrhoeal-causing pathogen combinations in children suffering from diarrhoea in rural and peri-urban communities in South Africa. The results showed that 82% of the stool specimens tested positive for enteric pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites. The most common bacterial pathogens were EAEC and EPEC, and the most common viruses were Adenovirus and Norovirus. Multiple enteric pathogen combinations were also found, indicating the complex nature of pathogen co-infections in diarrhoeal episodes.
Review
Infectious Diseases
Akebe Luther King Abia, Themba Baloyi, Afsatou N. Traore, Natasha Potgieter
Summary: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global public health threat, and wastewater is recognized as a significant environmental reservoir for AMR. Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are critical for protecting public health and the environment, but they can also contribute to the spread of AMR. Inadequate sanitation and wastewater treatment facilities, coupled with the overuse and misuse of antibiotics, make the prevalence of AMR in African wastewater a particular concern. This review highlights the need for standardized protocols and improved genomic skills within Africa to address the knowledge gaps and challenges in studying the resistome in wastewater.
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Weiyu Yu, Peggy Wanza, Emmah Kwoba, Thumbi Mwangi, Joseph Okotto-Okotto, Diogo Trajano Gomes da Silva, Jim A. Wright
Summary: This study investigated the reliability of rainwater harvesting using a modelling approach that integrated household surveys with gridded precipitation data. The results showed that the majority of households (95.1%) that consumed rainwater faced insufficient supply throughout the year, with even more intermittent supply during the short rains for households with alternative improved sources.
Article
Virology
Ronewa Khumela, Jean-Pierre Kabue, Marcia Terezinha Baroni de Moraes, Afsatou Ndama Traore, Natasha Potgieter
Summary: Acute gastroenteritis (AGE) caused by Human norovirus (HNoV), particularly GII.4 strains, is a major concern in paediatric populations globally. This study detected and characterized HNoV in children with and without AGE. The prevalence of HNoV was significantly higher in children with AGE compared to those without AGE, with GII HNoV being the predominant genotype. The study also revealed significant changes in the circulating HNoV strains over time and emphasized the need for monitoring and preventive measures to control the spread and burden of AGE.
Article
Virology
Jean-Pierre Kabue, Ronewa Khumela, Emma Meader, Marcia Terezinha Baroni de Moraes, Afsatou Ndama Traore, Natasha Potgieter
Summary: Norovirus is the leading cause of viral gastroenteritis in young children worldwide. This study found a significant association between NoV infection and severe diarrhea cases, and the NoV-specific IgA antibody level may be related to the severity of diarrheal disease.
Review
Microbiology
Afsatou Ndama Traore, Mpumelelo Casper Rikhotso, Marry Avheani Mphaphuli, Sana Mustakahmed Patel, Hafsa Ali Mahamud, Leonard Owino Kachienga, Jean-Pierre Kabue, Natasha Potgieter
Summary: This review and meta-analysis investigated the prevalence and molecular insights into isoniazid (INH) and rifampicin (RIF) resistance-conferring mutations in Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates from South Africa. High prevalence of specific mutations, including S450L in rpoB and S315T, linked to resistance against RIF and INH respectively, were found. These findings contribute to understanding drug resistance mechanisms and provide valuable insights for targeted interventions against drug-resistant TB.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Phathutshedzo Rakhalaru, Lutendo Munzhedzi, Akebe Luther King Abia, Jean Pierre Kabue, Natasha Potgieter, Afsatou Ndama Traore
Summary: This study investigated the prevalence and antibiotic resistance of diarrheagenic Escherichia coli (DEC) in toilets and kitchen cloths in the Vhembe district, South Africa. The results showed that these bacteria were more prevalent in kitchen cloths and exhibited high resistance to antibiotics such as ampicillin and amoxicillin. This highlights the importance of fomites as potential sources of bacterial contamination in rural settings and emphasizes the need for proactive measures to improve hygiene practices and antibiotic stewardship in these communities.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Farouk Umar, Josephine Amoah, Moses Asamoah, Mawuli Dzodzomenyo, Chidinma Igwenagu, Lorna-Grace Okotto, Joseph Okotto-Okotto, Pete Shaw, Jim Wright, Michelle Bloor
Summary: Mismanaged domestic waste poses a threat to ecosystem health, especially in developing country cities. This study shows that GSV coverage has bias relative to environmental waste indicators in two African cities, with lower waste burning density and fewer large waste piles observed in areas with GSV coverage. Future studies should correct for coverage bias when using GSV to quantify waste indicators.
SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Duah Dwomoh, Samuel Iddi, Seth Kwaku Afagbedzi, Natalia Tejedor-Garavito, Winfred Dotse-Gborgbortsi, Jim Wright, Andrew J. Tatem, Kristine Nilsen
Summary: The study assessed the disparities in maternal, neonatal, and child health service utilization between slum and non-slum districts in Ghana. The findings reveal a significant decline in vaccination coverage and antenatal care attendance in slum districts, while skilled birth delivery and postnatal care were higher in urban slum areas compared to non-urban slum areas.
JOURNAL OF URBAN HEALTH-BULLETIN OF THE NEW YORK ACADEMY OF MEDICINE
(2023)
